Padua

We also spent a day exploring the city of Padua. Padua's history dates back to the time of ancient Rome. It claims to have been founded by the Trojan prince Antenor in 1183 BC. It is a stone's throw from the birthplace of Livy, its men fought against Hannibal at Cannae, and it is the adopted hometown of St. Anthony of Padua. (He was actually born in Portugal).

Before setting out to see the sights we stopped at the famous Caffe` Pedrocchi, a neoclassical cafe famous throughout Italy. VERY "upscale". . Here's a picture of the barrista explaining the innerworkings of their coffee-making process.


We passed by the fruit and vegetable market on the way through town.


Our first stop was the Basilica of St. Anthony of Padua, built in honor of the saint.


Completed in 1310, it is a mix of architectural styles, although principally Gothic and Romanesque. The numerous domes smack of Byzantine influence though.


The cavernous interior of the basilica.


On the right side is the chapel where St. Anthony's tomb is. I didn't get a good picture up close but you can see it just the same.


The beautifully Baroque relic chapel. It contains numerous relics of saints, and relics of St. Anthony as well including his habit, coffin, and incorrupt tongue and vocal cords (said to be a testament of how eloquently he preached the Gospel).


The cloister and courtyard.


Leaving St. Anthony's we went through the main square in the town, which is bordered by the river flowing through it. This bridge caught my eye with its obelisks and statuary.


Next stop was the church of St. Justina. Built in the 15th century it holds the relics of the 5th century martyr St. Justina. It was looted and it's monastic community suppressed by Napoleon's troops but has been rebuilt and restored.


2 of the side altars, arranged in pairs going down the nave. As you can see it was quite well-lit inside this church.


Two bronze angel sculptures hold a Byzantine icon. Below is the tomb of the Evangelist St. Luke.


The main altar and choir.


A shot of the walnut choir stalls.


And a close-up shot of the reliefs carved into them. On the left, Christ appears to St. Thomas who inserts his finger in his side, and on the right, the Ascension.


On the high altar, a detail showing the inlaid marble portrait of St. Justina.


A well, now surrounded by a more elaborate housing where St. Justina's relics were found, along with other martyrs'.


A picture looking down into the well showing some of the bones that still remain.


The foundations of the old church, still visible in some places under protective glass.


This is the metal container that St. Luke's relics were brought back from Thebes in.


A picture of the family leaving the church.


I mentioned Padua's ancient history above - this is said to be the tomb of Antenor. The monument was built in the 4th century.


Momma garbage truck and baby garbage truck........


Scott Story, if you remember, when you were here we talked about whether or not you would feel secure of your manhood riding a Smart Car to work everyday. I think you need have no fears. This guy is obviously secure enough of HIS manhood to ride a Razor Scooter to work!


As we left town we caught a glimpse of Rip van Winkle.